Smith-McGee Designs

03/19/2026

I’m currently working with Second Step For Warriors, a small, grassroots nonprofit run by just a handful of dedicated volunteers—and I can tell you firsthand, they are doing meaningful, hands-on work for our local veterans.

What started as collecting clothing for veterans (including interview attire) has grown into helping with transportation, medical needs, and everyday essentials as they transition into civilian life.

They don’t have a big team. They don’t have a big budget. But they do have a big mission and they need community support.

That’s where YOU come in.

They’re offering ad space in the program for their upcoming Color Party Fundraiser, and it’s a great opportunity for small businesses to:

•Support veterans in a real, tangible way
•Get your business in front of the community
•Be part of something that truly matters

Ad options start at just $25, so this is accessible for even the smallest businesses.
• Ad Deadline: April 20
• Event Date: May 23

If you’ve ever wanted an easy way to give back locally—this is it. Reach out to me directly at [email protected] and I’ll get you set up. You can also download the ad reservation form here bit.ly/2ndStepProgram —simply fill it out and email it to me.

Let’s show up for those who served.

Learn more about Second Step at https://secondstepforwarriors.org/

03/10/2026

Connections that Matter

Next up in this series is someone I personally rely on—Jessica McGee, LMT.

If you spend hours at a computer like I do, you know exactly what that tension in your neck and shoulders feels like. Jessica has worked out more than a few very tough “designer knots” for me over the years.

She works by appointment only out of The Hair Shop (1367 W. Martintown Rd., North Augusta), and her space is calm, professional, and welcoming. She truly listens and tailors each session to what your body needs—whether that’s stress relief, tension work, or simply time to reset.

Supporting small businesses is about trusting people who care deeply about their craft and Jessica absolutely does.

Give her a follow today and contact her make an appointment—you can thank me later! www.facebook.com/JMcGeeLMT

03/05/2026

It's time to Spring Forward!

Daylight Saving Time starts THIS weekend. Before you go to bed Saturday night, set your clocks AHEAD one hour.

We'll see you Sunday Morning!

03/05/2026

Don’t forget—Daylight Saving Time begins this Sunday!

Set your clocks forward one hour before heading to bed Saturday night.

Longer evenings are on the way, North Augusta! Who’s ready for more sunshine after work?

03/04/2026

I’ve starting seeing more and more AI-generated logos and graphics lately, and honestly? The majority of them look the same.

They’re clean. They’re modern. They’re “fine.” And let’s face it, depending on what AI package a person has, they’re free (or pretty darn cheap).

You know what they aren’t? They aren’t unique to the business or organization behind them. And in a pretty crowded world, looking like everyone else makes it hard to stand out and even harder to be remembered.

Branding isn’t just about having a logo. It’s about creating something that feels distinctly yours. That takes strategy. It takes conversation. It takes understanding what makes you different.

If you’re building something meaningful and unique and want logo and/or branding that truly reflects it, let’s talk. Message me today to schedule your free consultation.

And if you’re curious, I shared more thoughts on this in my latest blog—read it at bit.ly/brand-building-ai

03/02/2026

If you're looking for some networking opportunities this month, the North Augusta Chamber of Commerce has you covered!

02/26/2026

If you're like me—working a job (building a business, in my case), keeping a household running, and taking care of a husband, children, AND aging parents—this is for YOU!

Register, let me know you're coming, and I'll save a seat for you!

Sustaining Women in Leadership: The Reality of the Sandwich Generation

🗓 Tuesday, March 24
🕔 11:30 am
📍North Augusta Community Center, 495 Brookside Ave., North Augusta
🎟 Register at bit.ly/WIB-Mar24 — Chamber Members: $40 • Visitors: $50

Many women in leadership today are balancing more than ever—leading teams and businesses while also caring for children, aging parents, and their communities.

It’s rewarding. It’s demanding. And for many, it’s the daily reality of the “Sandwich Generation.”

At this Women in Business event, we’ll create space for honest conversation about:
• The pressures of dual caregiving
• Career sustainability and growth
• Setting boundaries and managing expectations
• Finding strength through community

If you’ve ever felt pulled in multiple directions while still expected to lead with excellence, this conversation is for you.

Join us for insight, encouragement, and meaningful connection with other women navigating similar seasons.

Tag a leader who needs to be in this room.

02/25/2026

This morning’s Small Business Roundtable with the North Augusta Chamber of Commerce was just good for the soul.

Twenty business owners around one table all talking honestly about what’s working, what’s hard, and how we grow without losing ourselves in the process.

We talked about relationships (the real kind), marketing that actually makes sense, and how to show up at community and business events with purpose instead of just collecting business cards.

I love rooms like this. No posturing. No pretending. Just people building businesses and trying to do it well.

If you’ve never been, come sit at the table on March 25 at 9:00am at the North Augusta Community Center. You’ll leave encouraged.

02/24/2026

Connections that Matter

I’m kicking off a new series highlighting small businesses that truly make a difference in our community and it only felt right to start with Argus Visuals.

Brian and Sheryl recently did my professional headshots, and not only did they deliver beautiful, polished images, they made the entire experience comfortable and easy. Their studio is welcoming, their process is professional, and they genuinely care about helping you show up confidently in your brand.

If your headshot no longer reflects where you are (or where you’re going), I highly recommend connecting with them.

Learn more about them and see their work at www.argusvisuals.com

Great work. Even better people.

02/23/2026

Today I was completely surprised — and incredibly honored — by the Rotary Club of Aiken.

They name ME a Paul Harris Fellow in recognition of my creative work for their Economic Symposium on February 4. I had the privilege of designing the artwork, printed pieces, and presentations for the event but I truly never expected this.

The Paul Harris Fellow recognition, named for Rotary founder Paul Harris, is one of Rotary’s highest honors and reflects a shared commitment to service above self. Receiving it as someone who isn’t even a Rotarian makes it especially meaningful.

A heartfelt thank you to Keyatta Priester—not just for the honor, but for your friendship and leadership. I’ve known you for years, and watching you lead with such grace makes this even more special.

And it was so good to see my friend Becky Dearden there as well—always cheering on others and serving our community faithfully.

Grateful. Surprised. And thankful to play a small part in work that makes a difference.

02/20/2026

So proud to share this incredible news from one of my clients, the Rotary Club of Aiken—congratulations to President Keyatta Priester on being named Woman of the Year by the Aiken Chamber of Commerce.

I’ve known Keyatta for several years, and this honor comes as no surprise. Her heart for service, steady leadership, and genuine care for people have always set her apart. She shows up, she leads well, and she serves faithfully.

It’s an honor to support Rotary's marketing/newsletters and to cheer on a leader and friend who is so deserving of this recognition.

Well done, Keyatta—so proud of you!

02/20/2026

Join us this Sunday as we begin the sacred season of Lent together.

First Sunday in Lent—February 22, 2026
Preacher: Rev. Dr. Cathy Jamieson
Sermon Scripture: Ruth 1:6–22
Key Word: Loyalty
Theme: Ruth and Naomi

As we enter this season of reflection and renewal, we turn to the powerful story of Ruth and Naomi—a story of steadfast love, commitment, and faithfulness in the midst of hardship.

God calls us to live in love and support of one another, especially when times get tough. As we begin the journey of Lent, we are called to loyally follow Jesus, all the way to the cross.

Worship Opportunities:
• 8:30 am Traditional Service—Grace Sanctuary
• 8:45 am LifeSong Service—Wesley Center & Live Stream
• 11:00 am Traditional Service—Grace Sanctuary & Live Stream

We look forward to worshiping with you as we take these first steps toward Easter together.